Although the gig economy has witnessed growth across various sectors, it is difficult to pinpoint the top 10 businesses with certainty. However, based on industry trends and increased demand, here are 10 types of businesses that have experienced significant growth due to the gig economy in 2021:
1. Food Delivery Services: Companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Deliveroo have experienced a surge in demand for food delivery services, especially during the pandemic.
2. Ride-Hailing Platforms: Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft have seen steady growth, allowing individuals to work as drivers on a flexible basis.
3. Freelance Marketplaces: Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer have gained popularity, connecting freelancers with clients across various industries.
4. E-commerce Support Services: As online businesses expand, businesses offering services like product photography, virtual assistants, and inventory management have experienced growth.
5. Home & Personal Maintenance Services: Platforms like TaskRabbit and Thumbtack have connected gig workers with people seeking assistance with home repairs, cleaning, or gardening.
6. Online Education & Tutoring: Remote learning and increased demand for personalized education have driven the growth of online tutoring platforms such as VIPKid and Chegg.
7. Pet Care Services: Apps like Rover connect pet owners with dog walkers, pet sitters, and other animal care services, reflecting the rise in demand for flexible pet care.
8. Virtual Health Services: Telehealth platforms and online therapy services like Teladoc Health and BetterHelp have experienced growth, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely.
9. Content Creation & Influencer Marketing: Influencer marketing agencies and platforms connecting brands with content creators and social media influencers have flourished in the gig economy.
10. Gig-Based Professional Services: Professionals offering services like graphic design, web development, writing, and marketing have thrived in the gig economy, working with multiple clients through platforms or independently.
It is important to note that the gig economy is dynamic, with businesses evolving rapidly. Thus, while these industries have shown considerable growth in 2021, other businesses may also have experienced significant expansion in response to changing market demands.